Hello again, everyone!
I apologize for not posting at all for the last few weeks. It has been super busy for me.
As some of you know, I started a new job a little over a month ago. I absolutely love it and have already learned so much from my colleagues. It has been such an exciting journey for me and I am so thankful that my workplace has become a big blessing in my life.
Lately I've been thinking about how I want to include Jesus and my faith into my work. I am not one who feels comfortable preaching sermons to my co-workers and forcing religion on them or getting into debates. I often find that it not only offends people, but it also turns them away from wanting to know more about God.
For me, I strive to live by the words of Saint Francis of Assisi. He said, "Preach the Gospel at all times, and if necessary use words." Basically, my actions, attitude, behavior, etc. are just as effective at leading people closer to God than if I only used my words to try to debate with others. But if someone asks me about my faith, I am completely comfortable telling them about why I love Jesus and what He has done for me so far. I am super open to talking about my faith with those around me, but I want them to approach me about it instead of chasing people around with a Bible and telling them to repent for their sins.
The Gospel is nothing to be ashamed about. In fact, Christ calls us to share our faith with others so they can experience forgiveness and salvation. Some of us have different ways to share their faith. Here are just some of mine.
1.) Pray over your co-workers, bosses, and executives. I like to arrive at work just a few extra minutes early. This gives me a chance to start my workday with a quick prayer asking God to bless all my colleagues and protect them from harm. I like to pray over each individual by name and lift them up to God.
2.) I love building relationships with people and getting to know them one-on-one. Everyone has their own quirks, interests, ideas, etc. and it's so refreshing to learn about them and ask questions about their lives. It shows them that you value them and that what they have to say is important to you. Once you build a personal relationship with people, it is a lot easier to talk about things like faith and religion because you already have a certain level of comfort and trust.
3.) Be a source of joy and light. Every workplace has its fair share of drama, stress, and negativity. Instead of being sucked into the whirlwind of chaos, do your best to remain calm, positive, and energetic. Your attitude reveals a lot about you and may attract people to you. I have had a handful of people approach me and ask me how I can be so happy or feel so energetic. I often tell them that my energy and joy is mainly possible because of my strong faith in God. I know things will be okay and work out because I have witnessed God work in my life. If they are interested and open to me sharing that, then I will sometimes tell them about specific instances where God has helped me. But even if you don't say anything about your faith, your attitude and demeanor will either make people interested or it will repel people away from you.
Scripture:
"Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." -Matthew 5:15-16
"However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me -- the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace." -Acts 20:24
"For I am not ashamed of the Gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes." -Romans 1:16
"But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander." -1 Peter 3: 15-16
Let's go and spread God's love and grace to all those we come in contact with. If we truly love Jesus, we want others to get to know him too. At the same time, let's all try to be humble, gentle, and kind. Not everyone is ready to hear about God, and we need to also be sensitive to that too.
Peace and Joy,
Chloe
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
Monday, January 1, 2018
Prayer & A Blessing For 2018
Happy New Year! Wow! 2018 has arrived and I am so excited to see what God has in store for this new year.
We all have resolutions and goals for 2018. I shared some of mine in a previous post, but I think many of us can relate to wanting this year to be filled with joy, peace, and kindness. The best part of that goal, is that we can all do something to make those things actually happen. We can all spread joy, peace, and kindness to other people around us. In return, those things will come back to us. God wants us to be people who live by joy and hope. This is the perfect time to celebrate a new year, new dreams, new jobs, new relationships, new passions. We have so much to be grateful for. When we live our lives out of a place of thankfulness and wonder, we become much more capable to become more like the people God wants us to. So here is a little prayer followed by a blessing for each and every one of you.
Father,
Thank You for the gift of a new year. This is a time to reflect on how amazing You have been to me, even when I didn't deserve any of it. This is a year to savor and cherish the people You have placed in my life and to constantly be thankful for them. This is a year to dive into something new and exciting that You have planned in advance for me. Lord, give me the courage, obedience, and faith to follow You wherever You lead me and to enjoy the journey with You by my side. Father, I ask that this year will be productive for me. May I work hard at developing the special gifts You have entrusted to me. May I learn how to use those gifts to better serve You and others around me. Help me to bring light and joy to all those I interact with. Keep me from becoming irritable at people or situations, and to instead think of ways to worship You. May I be someone who encourages other people and inspires them to follow You. Thank You, Father for this new year and a chance to start fresh. I ask that You would bless this year and I am excited to see what plans You have in store for me.
Amen.
May our Savior fill your hearts with abundant joy and peace as You continue to walk with Him. May you be surrounded by people who encourage you and fill your life with kindness and grace. May you grow closer to Jesus and find new ways to worship Him and lift His name on high even if you feel like you are walking through the darkest and lowest valley. May you be surrounded by armies of angels and be protected from the enemy's snares. May this year be overflowing with blessings, adventures, and laughter, and with people who will always pray with you and for you. You are deeply loved and cherished. You are talented, strong, brave, and capable. I pray that 2018 will be the best year yet for you.
Peace and Joy,
Chloe
We all have resolutions and goals for 2018. I shared some of mine in a previous post, but I think many of us can relate to wanting this year to be filled with joy, peace, and kindness. The best part of that goal, is that we can all do something to make those things actually happen. We can all spread joy, peace, and kindness to other people around us. In return, those things will come back to us. God wants us to be people who live by joy and hope. This is the perfect time to celebrate a new year, new dreams, new jobs, new relationships, new passions. We have so much to be grateful for. When we live our lives out of a place of thankfulness and wonder, we become much more capable to become more like the people God wants us to. So here is a little prayer followed by a blessing for each and every one of you.
Father,
Thank You for the gift of a new year. This is a time to reflect on how amazing You have been to me, even when I didn't deserve any of it. This is a year to savor and cherish the people You have placed in my life and to constantly be thankful for them. This is a year to dive into something new and exciting that You have planned in advance for me. Lord, give me the courage, obedience, and faith to follow You wherever You lead me and to enjoy the journey with You by my side. Father, I ask that this year will be productive for me. May I work hard at developing the special gifts You have entrusted to me. May I learn how to use those gifts to better serve You and others around me. Help me to bring light and joy to all those I interact with. Keep me from becoming irritable at people or situations, and to instead think of ways to worship You. May I be someone who encourages other people and inspires them to follow You. Thank You, Father for this new year and a chance to start fresh. I ask that You would bless this year and I am excited to see what plans You have in store for me.
Amen.
May our Savior fill your hearts with abundant joy and peace as You continue to walk with Him. May you be surrounded by people who encourage you and fill your life with kindness and grace. May you grow closer to Jesus and find new ways to worship Him and lift His name on high even if you feel like you are walking through the darkest and lowest valley. May you be surrounded by armies of angels and be protected from the enemy's snares. May this year be overflowing with blessings, adventures, and laughter, and with people who will always pray with you and for you. You are deeply loved and cherished. You are talented, strong, brave, and capable. I pray that 2018 will be the best year yet for you.
Peace and Joy,
Chloe
Thursday, December 28, 2017
Reflection On 2017
Yeah, I know. 2 blog posts in one day. What?!
Well, tis the season of reflection. I figured I'd do this post today because I'll probably forget if I procrastinate any longer. ;)
Here's a recap of how my year went.
-I started the year in a sling after undergoing shoulder surgery and spent a total of 8 weeks using one arm. I learned that things like doing my hair, getting dressed, showering, and carrying textbooks with one arm is not quite as easy as I thought it'd be. Thankfully, my family and friends were so kind and helpful and made sure I didn't struggle too much.
-My second semester of senior year was absolute craziness. I felt like I had no idea what I wanted to do post graduation, I wanted to end my college career with the best grades ever, and I felt so homesick. I battled anxiety almost every day. To be honest, my last semester of college was one of the darkest times in my life. I decided to stop attending chapel and church and felt like my workload made me too busy for God. Thankfully, God never gives up on me though.
-I managed to graduate. It was certainly a joyous occasion. I did it. Now what?
-I moved to Sacramento and began the job hunt. It felt like an endless waiting game. Lots of dead ends and no return phone calls. What was I doing wrong?
-I accepted a job at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services. The job lasted one day after I realized the job and the company weren't going to work out. It was a very chaotic place with absolutely no communication skills and/or organization. No one could tell me who my boss was or what my actual job description was. I wanted it to work out, but sometimes God has a way of firmly shutting a door when He knows there's something better for me.
-I felt even more depressed than I did before. Was I too stupid? Too young-looking? I wanted to cry. In my sadness, God gave me a reminder to cling to Him and His word. I started Bible journaling, doing devotionals, and journaling. I can't say all my problems instantly went away, but I can say God was aways by my side. I was able to experience peace and comfort in uncertainty, and peace from God is the best thing ever. I truly believe God uses pain to remind us of how big He really is. I was able to worship God in my hurt and that's something I never thought was possible.
-6 months after graduating college, I landed a job at the Sacramento Metro Chamber. It's a temporary job until May, but at least it's a positive, exciting, and meaningful place to not just work, but to also network and grow. In one week of work, I have met awesome local leaders, been given feedback on my communications skills, and found great people to work alongside with. The old saying, "Good things come to those who wait" is certainly true. Patience has not been one of my strong suits, but God used the last 6 months to teach me patience in the truest form. It was as if God signed me up for "Patience Bootcamp" and I have grown so much because of it. God needed to kick my butt a little bit in order for me to trust Him more.
-I passed the CBEST. For those of you that don't know what the CBEST is, it stands for California Basic Educational Skills Test. It is necessary for anyone who wants to work as a substitute teacher or school administrator in California. I love working with kids and the idea of making school a place where they can be engaged, have fun, and realize their potential, it so exciting to me. There's always the possibility that I can substitute teach once my current job ends, so I'm not left jobless too long. God provides in His own unique ways, and for that I am very thankful and excited.
This year was tough. There are lots of memories that I wish I could forget or erase. I cried a lot. At the same time, I am so grateful for those dark moments. Those dark moments brought me so close to Jesus and I have felt His arms around me. Jesus carried me when my legs were too weak to walk. No prayer or cry has gone unheard. I have felt His voice tell me every night and every morning, "Chloe, I see you. I hear you. I am with you. You are not alone, my child. I love you." God has been so faithful to me and I don't even deserve it. My heart is overflowing with joy and peace and I know this is just the beginning. God is so good. Even if you think God has left you. I promise you He hasn't. I just wanted to share a bit of my own struggles in hopes that if you're going through similar things, you can be encouraged. Don't give up on God. Don't give up on hope. It may not be instant, but your happy ending will come. Just keep holding on. Stay strong in the faith.
I pray 2018 will be a year that you experience the greatness of our Savior. He is so much bigger than any of our problems. He is Emmanuel- God with us.
Peace and Joy,
Chloe
Well, tis the season of reflection. I figured I'd do this post today because I'll probably forget if I procrastinate any longer. ;)
Here's a recap of how my year went.
-I started the year in a sling after undergoing shoulder surgery and spent a total of 8 weeks using one arm. I learned that things like doing my hair, getting dressed, showering, and carrying textbooks with one arm is not quite as easy as I thought it'd be. Thankfully, my family and friends were so kind and helpful and made sure I didn't struggle too much.
-My second semester of senior year was absolute craziness. I felt like I had no idea what I wanted to do post graduation, I wanted to end my college career with the best grades ever, and I felt so homesick. I battled anxiety almost every day. To be honest, my last semester of college was one of the darkest times in my life. I decided to stop attending chapel and church and felt like my workload made me too busy for God. Thankfully, God never gives up on me though.
-I managed to graduate. It was certainly a joyous occasion. I did it. Now what?
-I moved to Sacramento and began the job hunt. It felt like an endless waiting game. Lots of dead ends and no return phone calls. What was I doing wrong?
-I accepted a job at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services. The job lasted one day after I realized the job and the company weren't going to work out. It was a very chaotic place with absolutely no communication skills and/or organization. No one could tell me who my boss was or what my actual job description was. I wanted it to work out, but sometimes God has a way of firmly shutting a door when He knows there's something better for me.
-I felt even more depressed than I did before. Was I too stupid? Too young-looking? I wanted to cry. In my sadness, God gave me a reminder to cling to Him and His word. I started Bible journaling, doing devotionals, and journaling. I can't say all my problems instantly went away, but I can say God was aways by my side. I was able to experience peace and comfort in uncertainty, and peace from God is the best thing ever. I truly believe God uses pain to remind us of how big He really is. I was able to worship God in my hurt and that's something I never thought was possible.
-6 months after graduating college, I landed a job at the Sacramento Metro Chamber. It's a temporary job until May, but at least it's a positive, exciting, and meaningful place to not just work, but to also network and grow. In one week of work, I have met awesome local leaders, been given feedback on my communications skills, and found great people to work alongside with. The old saying, "Good things come to those who wait" is certainly true. Patience has not been one of my strong suits, but God used the last 6 months to teach me patience in the truest form. It was as if God signed me up for "Patience Bootcamp" and I have grown so much because of it. God needed to kick my butt a little bit in order for me to trust Him more.
-I passed the CBEST. For those of you that don't know what the CBEST is, it stands for California Basic Educational Skills Test. It is necessary for anyone who wants to work as a substitute teacher or school administrator in California. I love working with kids and the idea of making school a place where they can be engaged, have fun, and realize their potential, it so exciting to me. There's always the possibility that I can substitute teach once my current job ends, so I'm not left jobless too long. God provides in His own unique ways, and for that I am very thankful and excited.
This year was tough. There are lots of memories that I wish I could forget or erase. I cried a lot. At the same time, I am so grateful for those dark moments. Those dark moments brought me so close to Jesus and I have felt His arms around me. Jesus carried me when my legs were too weak to walk. No prayer or cry has gone unheard. I have felt His voice tell me every night and every morning, "Chloe, I see you. I hear you. I am with you. You are not alone, my child. I love you." God has been so faithful to me and I don't even deserve it. My heart is overflowing with joy and peace and I know this is just the beginning. God is so good. Even if you think God has left you. I promise you He hasn't. I just wanted to share a bit of my own struggles in hopes that if you're going through similar things, you can be encouraged. Don't give up on God. Don't give up on hope. It may not be instant, but your happy ending will come. Just keep holding on. Stay strong in the faith.
I pray 2018 will be a year that you experience the greatness of our Savior. He is so much bigger than any of our problems. He is Emmanuel- God with us.
Peace and Joy,
Chloe
My New Year's Resolutions
Hello again, everyone!
I hope you all had a joyous Christmas alongside loved ones. I certainly enjoyed much needed quality time with my family, delicious food, and so much laughter.
The new year is coming. I've taken a lot of time to think about my intentions for 2018. In the past, my new year's resolutions always sounded so shallow. I wanted to be prettier, lose weight, have more friends, etc. This year, the Lord has put it on my heart to mature a bit more and use scripture to set goals instead of being influenced by things like social media and Google. (Yes, in years past I have Googled what my resolutions should be according to experts and discussion boards. It did not turn out well.) The past few days, I have dug deep into the book of Proverbs, and found lot of good inspiration for how I'd like 2018 to go.
1.) Keep Christ first.
If my eyes are not fixed on Jesus, I will fail. I must be humble enough to give God the credit for my success.
John 15:5- "I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."
Proverbs 3:6- "In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
Matthew 6:33- "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
2.) Be a beacon of joy, light, and positivity.
The world already has enough drama and negativity. I can choose to be joyful no matter what happens to me. I can be an example of how life with Jesus is so awesome.
Proverbs 18:2- "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."
Psalm 103:2-5- "Bless the LORD, O my soul, an forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is rented like the eagle's."
Matthew 5:16- "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
3.) Listen to understand, not to speak or criticize.
Oftentimes when someone vents to me, I like to fix things for them instead of actively listening. When I speak more than I listen, I hurt people. My advice is not always that important. Sometimes the best thing I can do is show compassion by shutting my mouth.
Proverbs 18:2- "A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion."
James 1:19- "Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger."
4.) Have a mentor and be a mentor.
I must be humble enough to listen to advice for those who are wiser than me. They will help keep me accountable. Likewise, I can be a positive influence and role model for others by loving Jesus and serving people.
Proverbs 27:17- "Iron sharpens iron, and so one man sharpens another."
Hebrews 13:7- "Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith."
Ecclesiastes 4:10- "For if they fall, one will lift his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up."
5.) Be wise with my finances, but do not be greedy.
I have just started my first real job after college. It's exciting to make money and start my financial portfolio, but if my interest in money is bigger than my interest in God, then I will fail and be left with nothing. Money doesn't last, but God is eternal.
Proverbs 3:9- "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce."
1 Timothy 6:10- "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs."
Romans 13:8- "Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves has fulfilled the law."
Luke 6:10-11- "One who is faithful in very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much. If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches?"
I pray that 2018 will be a year filled with many blessings for all of us. May we draw nearer to Jesus and love one another deeply.
Peace and Joy,
Chloe
I hope you all had a joyous Christmas alongside loved ones. I certainly enjoyed much needed quality time with my family, delicious food, and so much laughter.
The new year is coming. I've taken a lot of time to think about my intentions for 2018. In the past, my new year's resolutions always sounded so shallow. I wanted to be prettier, lose weight, have more friends, etc. This year, the Lord has put it on my heart to mature a bit more and use scripture to set goals instead of being influenced by things like social media and Google. (Yes, in years past I have Googled what my resolutions should be according to experts and discussion boards. It did not turn out well.) The past few days, I have dug deep into the book of Proverbs, and found lot of good inspiration for how I'd like 2018 to go.
1.) Keep Christ first.
If my eyes are not fixed on Jesus, I will fail. I must be humble enough to give God the credit for my success.
John 15:5- "I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."
Proverbs 3:6- "In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
Matthew 6:33- "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
2.) Be a beacon of joy, light, and positivity.
The world already has enough drama and negativity. I can choose to be joyful no matter what happens to me. I can be an example of how life with Jesus is so awesome.
Proverbs 18:2- "A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones."
Psalm 103:2-5- "Bless the LORD, O my soul, an forget not all his benefits, who forgives all your iniquity, who heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit, who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, who satisfies you with good so that your youth is rented like the eagle's."
Matthew 5:16- "In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."
3.) Listen to understand, not to speak or criticize.
Oftentimes when someone vents to me, I like to fix things for them instead of actively listening. When I speak more than I listen, I hurt people. My advice is not always that important. Sometimes the best thing I can do is show compassion by shutting my mouth.
Proverbs 18:2- "A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing his opinion."
James 1:19- "Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger."
4.) Have a mentor and be a mentor.
I must be humble enough to listen to advice for those who are wiser than me. They will help keep me accountable. Likewise, I can be a positive influence and role model for others by loving Jesus and serving people.
Proverbs 27:17- "Iron sharpens iron, and so one man sharpens another."
Hebrews 13:7- "Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith."
Ecclesiastes 4:10- "For if they fall, one will lift his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up."
5.) Be wise with my finances, but do not be greedy.
I have just started my first real job after college. It's exciting to make money and start my financial portfolio, but if my interest in money is bigger than my interest in God, then I will fail and be left with nothing. Money doesn't last, but God is eternal.
Proverbs 3:9- "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce."
1 Timothy 6:10- "For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs."
Romans 13:8- "Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves has fulfilled the law."
Luke 6:10-11- "One who is faithful in very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much. If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches?"
I pray that 2018 will be a year filled with many blessings for all of us. May we draw nearer to Jesus and love one another deeply.
Peace and Joy,
Chloe
Thursday, December 14, 2017
Scripture and Prayer: Fear
Hi again!
So, mini life update: I got a job! Wow! I am so excited and thankful to God for this wonderful opportunity to learn and grow. I am sure I will meet awesome people and that more good things are in store. At the same time, I can't help but have a few nerves before my first day. What if I no one likes me? What if I'm horrible at my job? What if I am not smart enough? While I realize some nerves are normal, I also know those fears and questions are not from God. I know the enemy wants me to freak out and get discouraged. The enemy hates seeing me thrive and be content. So where do I go when I need some encouragement? SCRIPTURE AND PRAYER!
"It is the LORD who goes before you. He will be with you: he will not leave you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed." -Deuteronomy 31:8
Lord, I am about to embark on a new phase of life. I am nervous and scared. However, I truly believe You are holding my hand and will never leave me. You have already gone ahead and paved a pathway for me. Lord, give me courage to fully trust You in all aspects of my life. Enable me to live by faith and not by sight. Give me mentors and friends to encourage me the same way Moses encouraged Joshua. Father, I ask You to wrap me in Your arms and calm my anxious heart. May I look to You, the Author and Perfector of my faith during this time of growth and transition. You have taught me that uncomfortable times usually result in blessings in the end. You work make all things work together perfectly for my good. You love me and You will not forsake me even when I forsake You. Lord, when I go through dark valleys, remind me that it's only temporary and that Your grace is more than sufficient for me. You have always held me in Your arms and helped me. You are my Provider, Guide, Advocate, and Anchor. I love You, Father.
Amen.
While it may feel awkward and uncomfortable to go through transitions, God promises us that we are not alone. In our hardest times, God offers us Himself and gives us His presence. And if you think of it, please keep me in Your prayers for courage and strength. I need it. ;)
Peace and Joy,
Chloe
Thursday, December 7, 2017
Scripture and Prayer: Trials (James 1:2-3)
Hello again, everyone! I hope your week has been great so far.
One thing I've recently started doing was writing out scripture verses and then reflecting on them by writing out a corresponding prayer to God for each piece of scripture. I got the idea from a company called Cultivate What Matters and they sell journals called Write the Word. I figured I could do the same thing even if I didn't purchase the exact journal and start my quiet time with that.
I have found that writing out God's word has given me so much more strength. I don't know about you, but it is much easier for me to remember things if I physically write them down. For me, I also understand what I am reading better when I take the time to write out the passage because as I am writing, my brain is also processing and dissecting big ideas down. Writing out prayers is my way of communicating my deepest praise and requests to God. And I will always be able to look back on my journals and remember God's faithfulness and see how my relationship with God has progressed and grown.
We all go through challenges and obstacles. No one can say their life is completely easy and fun 100% of the time. I had a coach in high school tell me that when she went through hard times, she loved turning her Bible to James and being reminded of God's truth. So that is where I will begin:
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith produces perseverance." -James 1:2-3 (NIV)
Father,
Thank You for giving me Your spirit and promising to watch over me all the days of my life. I know I will undergo a variety of challenges throughout my life. I ask that You would continue to remind me that I will never go through dark valleys alone. You are always with me and are my Comforter, Protector, Savior, and Friend. Protect me from the enemy's weapons and help me to always look to You for guidance. May I never lose faith in Your goodness and power. Lord, when storms come my way, may I be reminded that You are the only one who can calm the storms and restore true peace. Call me out to walk on the water and run into Your loving arms instead of looking at my problems. You ask me to live by faith because You love me and want me to be closer to You. You have given me so many resources and blessings to help me endure trials and You will never fail me. I can look back on my darkest days and see how You were with me and working for my good in the midst of my hurt. Thank You for being sovereign and for being constant. I love you.
Amen.
Whatever trials you are facing(or will face), God is alongside you. It can be hard to feel his presence but he is still there and ready to help you. You do not go through pain alone. We have a God who sees us and hears us. We are precious to him. Rest assured that God will never ever leave you nor forsake you.
Peace and Joy,
Chloe
One thing I've recently started doing was writing out scripture verses and then reflecting on them by writing out a corresponding prayer to God for each piece of scripture. I got the idea from a company called Cultivate What Matters and they sell journals called Write the Word. I figured I could do the same thing even if I didn't purchase the exact journal and start my quiet time with that.
I have found that writing out God's word has given me so much more strength. I don't know about you, but it is much easier for me to remember things if I physically write them down. For me, I also understand what I am reading better when I take the time to write out the passage because as I am writing, my brain is also processing and dissecting big ideas down. Writing out prayers is my way of communicating my deepest praise and requests to God. And I will always be able to look back on my journals and remember God's faithfulness and see how my relationship with God has progressed and grown.
We all go through challenges and obstacles. No one can say their life is completely easy and fun 100% of the time. I had a coach in high school tell me that when she went through hard times, she loved turning her Bible to James and being reminded of God's truth. So that is where I will begin:
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know the testing of your faith produces perseverance." -James 1:2-3 (NIV)
Father,
Thank You for giving me Your spirit and promising to watch over me all the days of my life. I know I will undergo a variety of challenges throughout my life. I ask that You would continue to remind me that I will never go through dark valleys alone. You are always with me and are my Comforter, Protector, Savior, and Friend. Protect me from the enemy's weapons and help me to always look to You for guidance. May I never lose faith in Your goodness and power. Lord, when storms come my way, may I be reminded that You are the only one who can calm the storms and restore true peace. Call me out to walk on the water and run into Your loving arms instead of looking at my problems. You ask me to live by faith because You love me and want me to be closer to You. You have given me so many resources and blessings to help me endure trials and You will never fail me. I can look back on my darkest days and see how You were with me and working for my good in the midst of my hurt. Thank You for being sovereign and for being constant. I love you.
Amen.
Whatever trials you are facing(or will face), God is alongside you. It can be hard to feel his presence but he is still there and ready to help you. You do not go through pain alone. We have a God who sees us and hears us. We are precious to him. Rest assured that God will never ever leave you nor forsake you.
Peace and Joy,
Chloe
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Reality of Black Friday and Cyber Monday
Hello everyone! I hope you all had a lovely Thanksgiving and spent some quality time with loved ones. I certainly enjoyed being with my family and friends and dinner was so delicious. My mom's green bean casserole was incredible and I always look forward to getting to stuff my face with it. We all know what comes right after Thanksgiving: Black Friday and Cyber Monday. I never really understood it. Don't get me wrong: I love a good deal and being thrifty. However, I don't love seeing people fight one another all for a toaster at Walmart or any other store for that matter. Is it really necessary to trample people or yank items out of their hands, pull hair, etc.
Here's my real concern with Black Friday and Cyber Monday:
Thanksgiving is all about reflecting on what we are grateful for and thinking about the many blessings around us. Black Friday and Cyber Monday ultimately ruin the spirit of gratitude because it is all about buying needless items just to show off our wealth and status. Nobody really needs every item in every store, but Black Friday and Cyber Monday force us to be unhappy with our lives because we need more stuff. Commercials on TV show us what our lives could look like if we all rushed into the stores to grab whatever fits into our cars and houses, but the only thing that can make us truly happy is taking time to think about what we already have and to give credit to the One who makes it all possible: God.
God does not withhold anything we need to survive. He graciously gives us everything plus more. He is generous and good. There is nothing any one of s has done to deserve his kindness, but God still pours out amazing things on us. When we buy into the lies that Black Friday and Cyber Monday tell us, we ultimately tell God that he is not good enough for us. Our hearts become more in love with shallow and material things rather than having minds and hearts focused on God's kingdom and mission. Can we actually say we love God and want to help other people when we're completely obsessed with the best deals and shopping until we can no longer fit everything into our mansions? God calls us choose him each day not just on Thanksgiving. I know it is not easy. I mess this up too. I can say I want to serve Jesus, but then I turn around to serve my own wants and desires. I am flawed and selfish but I am doing my best to keep Christ's mission first and foremost.
God loves us too much to let us love earthly possessions. It's all just stuff. The only thing that can fill us with true joy and peace is God's infinite love and goodness. He knows we are easily tempted and can mess up. He loves regardless and just wants to be close to us. The problem with earthly possessions is that is causes us to become distracted and we can easily forget the reason why we have so many nice things in the first place. I think it's so cool that God loves us too much to let us drift away from his heart. His love never gives up on us. How amazing is that!
Here are some pieces of scripture to reflect on during this season:
"No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate one and love the other, or you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." -Matthew 6:24
"The greedy stir up conflict, but those who trust in the LORD will prosper." -Proverbs 28:25
"Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, 'never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'" -Hebrews 13:5
Peace and Joy,
Chloe
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